Village officials reminded to hold barangay meeting

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Interior and Local Government has reminded barangay officials to conduct a barangay assembly for the second semester of calendar year 2013.

Talisay City Association of Barangay Council president Charles Basillote said the conduct of the assembly will not fall under the campaign period. 

This year’s barangay election is scheduled on October 28 and the campaign period is set on October 18 to 26.

“This is to ensure that the conduct of the activity will not be used for the political advancement of anybody desiring to run for the upcoming barangay election,” Basillote said, who is on his third and last term as village chief. 

Every barangay must undertake the State of  Barangay Address (SOBA) with emphasis on calendar year 2013 first Semester Accomplishments; CY 2013 first Semester Financial Report to include the itemized monthly collections and disbursement and the summary of income and expenditures and updates on CY 2013 first semester on its ongoing programs and projects.

As stated in the memorandum circular, barangay officials must also have to discuss peace and order, disaster preparedness, solid waste management, and the implementation of the Aksyon Barangay Kontra Dengue (ABKD). 

At least two weeks before the Barangay Assembly date, barangay officials are mandated to prepare banners or posters to be hanged or posted in at least three conspicuous places such as the barangay hall, plaza or main streets, among others.

Holding the event for years now has institutionalized people’s participation in barangay governance that has strengthened grassroots democracy.

It is also an opportunity for officials to hear and listen to the plight of their constituents and on how to collectively address issues/problems presented.  (FREEMAN)